8 Misconceptions About Dancers

To other people, dancers may seem like otherworldly creatures, with their odd habits and crazy abilities. But there are some general misconceptions about dancers. Here, Dance Informa sets them straight.

#1. We don’t eat.

As dancers, we are definitely conscious of what we put into our body. Although eating disorders are a cause for concern within some dance communities, the old stereotype of dancers living on “coffee and cigarettes” is a thing of the past. Most of us love to load up on big, healthy meals of veggies, protein and complex carbohydrates, and even enjoy the odd pig-out like a normal person!

#2. We’re dumb.

Just because we spend all day doing physical activity rather than sitting at a desk, don’t assume we’re not smart. In fact, being a good dancer requires intelligence as well as physical fitness. Dancing has been proven to be good for the brain in so many ways!

#3. Dance is just a hobby.

How many times have you had some ask you, “Yeah, but what’s your real job?”

#4. We’re naturally flexible.

Some of us were blessed with natural capacity, but most of us have to work for it, which is often a blessing in disguise because striving for goals makes us resilient and more grateful when we reach them.

#5. We are all tiny.

Any female dancer 5’7” or over will have had to respond to, “Aren’t you too tall to be a dancer?” at some point in their life. No, no we’re not. This is 2016.

#6. We have gross feet.

Okay, I know I may be in the minority on this one, but I’ve been doing ballet for 30 years, and my toes are actually pretty tidy. My career as a foot model could be just around the corner…

#7. We can tear up a club dance floor.

Alright, jazz and hip hop dancers most likely can, but don’t expect a ballet dancer to suddenly start freestyling on your next night out clubbing!

#8. Girls don’t lift boys.

In contemporary dance especially, yes they do! Partnering is partnering, and it’s not always about strength and size.